Father and son dramatically rescued from cliff

On the 8th of April a father and his 7 year old son were dramatically rescued from a dangerous incoming tide at Cowden cliffs, near Hornsea.

The father and son had been walking on the beach when the tide started coming in quickly. They tried to climb the 50ft cliff but got stuck about 35ft up and called for help whilst 10ft waves were breaking beneath them.

Hornsea and Bridlington coastguard rescue teams and Hornsea inshore rescue were called to assist, and although they managed to stabilise the casualties on the cliff, they were unable to carry out the full rescue due to the dangerous environment.

The Humberside coastguard helicopter was called in and winched the pair to the top of the cliff where they were met by the Yorkshire ambulance service.

A coastguard spokesperson says: “This father did absolutely the right thing to call the coastguard when he got into difficulty.

“We would urge people to please remember the tides – it’s so easy to get caught out by quickly moving tide. You can now download apps for your phones that can help keep you safe.”

Safety advice

Walkers should consider whether they could become cut off by the incoming tide and should not attempt to climb cliffs as shortcut back to the top.

Always check the weather and tidal conditions before you set out so that you can prepare accordingly.

Find local coastal weather and local tide times at: tide tables

Don’t take risks, but if you do get into trouble or see someone else in difficulty call 999 and ask for the coastguard.